The Balvenie 15 years old, Madeira Cask Finish /43%/ – In the spring of 2022 Balvenie Distillery added new expressions to their Cask Finishes range, all three inspired by flavors of European wine making regions. While 16 years old French Oak (finished in Pineau des Charentes casks) was destined for domestic market, the other two – 15 years old Madeira Cask and 18 years old Pedro Ximénez Cask – are Global Travel Retail exclusive. Here is the youngest whisky in the range, Balvenie 15 years old originally aged in American oak barrels then finished in ex-Madeira casks. It is not the first time Malt Master David Stewart has used Madeira casks however previous editions have been of older ages. The brand sold 4.5 million bottles in 2021, what makes it the sixth best-selling single malt whisky in the world.Nose: fruity and nutty, black currants, blackberries, pears, apricots, hazelnuts, cinnamon, candied ginger, white pepper, milk chocolate, honey, and hints of vanilla.
Palate: peaches, apricots, orange marmalade, mixed nuts, grapefruits, cinnamon, clove, white pepper, dash of ginger, caramel, and toasted oak.
Finish: medium long, mildly fruity, with notes of roasted almonds and nuts, honey, pepper, ginger, and oak tannins.
